1996 Jaguar XK8 vs. 1987 Mercedes-Benz 300
To start off, 1996 Jaguar XK8 is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1987 Mercedes-Benz 300. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1987 Mercedes-Benz 300 would be higher. At 3,996 cc (8 cylinders), 1996 Jaguar XK8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Jaguar XK8 (291 HP @ 6150 RPM) has 106 more horse power than 1987 Mercedes-Benz 300. (185 HP @ 5700 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Jaguar XK8 should accelerate faster than 1987 Mercedes-Benz 300. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Jaguar XK8 weights approximately 123 kg more than 1987 Mercedes-Benz 300. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1987 Mercedes-Benz 300 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1996 Jaguar XK8. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1987 Mercedes-Benz 300 will offer significantly more control. With that said, do keep in mind that many other factors such as speed and the wear on your tires can also have significant impact on traction and control. Let's talk about torque, 1996 Jaguar XK8 (393 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 133 more torque (in Nm) than 1987 Mercedes-Benz 300. (260 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 1996 Jaguar XK8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1987 Mercedes-Benz 300. 1996 Jaguar XK8 has automatic transmission and 1987 Mercedes-Benz 300 has manual transmission. 1987 Mercedes-Benz 300 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1996 Jaguar XK8 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Jaguar XK8 | 1987 Mercedes-Benz 300 | |
| Make | Jaguar | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | XK8 | 300 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1987 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3996 cc | 2962 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 291 HP | 185 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6150 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 393 Nm | 260 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4250 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 88.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86 mm | 80.3 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.7:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 251 km/hour | 207 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1653 kg | 1530 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4770 mm | 4770 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2810 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 75 L | 72 L |
